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Trump Warns Iran's Team Amid 2026 World Cup Tensions

3/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump warned of safety risks for Iran's national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Iran's football federation firmly rejected the warning and said FIFA, not the host nation, governs participation.
Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said participation is impossible because of the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and tensions.
Despite the uncertainty, Iran remains scheduled to compete, with matches planned in the United States.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump warned of safety risks for Iran's national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Iran's football federation firmly rejected the warning and said FIFA, not the host nation, governs participation.
Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said participation is impossible because of the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and tensions.
Despite the uncertainty, Iran remains scheduled to compete, with matches planned in the United States.